Kapiolani is a Hawaiian female given name that has a significant historical background and cultural meaning. It was the name of Queen Kapiolani, who was one of the most influential figures in Hawaiian history during the late 19th century.
The origin of the name Kapiolani can be traced back to ancient Hawaiian culture, where names often reflected the natural world or had spiritual significance. The name Kapiolani is derived from two Hawaiian words: "kapio" which means "to snatch away" or "to seize," and "lani" which means "heaven" or "sky." Together, these words form a powerful combination that suggests a woman of great strength and heavenly beauty.
Queen Kapiolani, whose birth name was Lydia Kamaka'eha Paki, was born in 1834 into Hawaiian royalty. She became known as Kapiolani after her conversion to Christianity at the age of twelve. This new name reflected her devotion to God and her dedication to spreading the Christian faith throughout Hawaii.
Throughout her life, Queen Kapiolani played a crucial role in Hawaiian history. She was married to King Kalākaua, who ruled Hawaii from 1874 until his death in 1891. As queen consort, she was known for her kindness and generosity towards the Hawaiian people. She established several schools, hospitals, and churches throughout the islands, and was a strong advocate for education and healthcare.
Queen Kapiolani is also remembered for her role in protecting native Hawaiian traditions and culture during a time of significant Western influence. She encouraged the preservation of traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and language, and worked to maintain the rights of commoners under Hawaiian law.
The name Kapiolani has since become synonymous with strength, devotion, and cultural pride among the Hawaiian people. It is often given to daughters in hopes that they will embody the same qualities as Queen Kapiolani – a woman who was deeply devoted to her faith, her family, and her beloved Hawaii. Today, Kapiolani remains an important historical figure and an inspiration for many Hawaiian women.
The name Kapiolani has seen varied usage in the United States over time. In the year 1980, there were 5 babies born with this name, followed by another 5 births in 1991. The popularity of the name seemed to increase as time passed, with a total of 7 babies being named Kapiolani in the year 2014. Overall, since 1980, there have been a total of 17 babies given this unique name across the United States.